Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $211 million and EPS of $3.15, an increase of $1 million and $0.06 per share respectively, driven by higher revenues and an expanding net interest margin [4][10] - Net interest income increased by $15 million to $647 million, with a net interest margin expansion of two basis points on a gap basis [10][14] - The effective tax rate decreased to 14.5% from 18.5% in the previous quarter, influenced by a higher proportion of exempt income [16][71] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was strong at $502 million for the quarter, with contributions from both banks, primarily in commercial and construction lending [10][11] - Non-interest income was $171 million, an increase of $3 million compared to the previous quarter, driven by solid performance across fee-generating segments [14] - Total operating expenses increased by $3 million to $495 million, primarily due to a non-cash goodwill impairment [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The unemployment rate in Puerto Rico remained low at 5.6%, with consumer spending showing resilience and a 5% increase in combined credit and debit card sales [5][6] - Mortgage balances at Banco Popular increased by $129 million, indicating strong home purchase activity [5] - The tourism sector benefited from significant events, contributing to increased economic activity [6][7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company’s strategy focuses on being the number one bank for customers, simplifying operations, and achieving a sustainable 14% return on tangible common equity [7][8] - Investments are being made in digital and payment solutions to enhance customer engagement and streamline operations [8][9] - The company is committed to improving cash management and credit delivery for small and mid-sized businesses [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the economic trends in Puerto Rico, citing a backlog of federal disaster recovery funds and ongoing real estate and tourism projects [6][23] - The company aims to close out 2025 on a high note, focusing on deposit retention and loan generation [23] - Management remains confident in the risk profile of the loan portfolios despite isolated credit events [20][45] Other Important Information - The CET1 ratio was 15.8%, a decrease of 12 basis points due to loan growth and capital actions [17] - The company declared a quarterly common stock dividend of $0.75 per share, an increase from the previous quarter [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: On margin and asset yields - Management indicated that they expect net interest margin to continue expanding despite potential rate cuts, with strong tailwinds from upcoming maturities in the investment portfolio [30][49] Question: On credit trends, especially in auto loans - Management remains optimistic about consumer credit trends, noting that delinquency rates are still lower year-over-year [33][34] Question: On large commercial loans and reserves - Management clarified that the loans in question are current on payments, and the decision to classify them as non-accrual was due to deteriorating circumstances [40][41] Question: On competition in the deposit market - Management acknowledged increased competition but emphasized their commitment to rational pricing and maintaining strong client relationships [74] Question: On underwriting standards amid increased competition - Management confirmed that they maintain rigorous underwriting standards and are not compromising on credit quality despite competitive pressures [78][80]